not hurt / harm a fly / flea

/nˌɒt hˈɜːt hˈɑːm ɐ flˈaɪ flˈiː/

/nˌɑːt hˈɜːt hˈɑːɹm ɐ flˈaɪ flˈiː/

[phrase]

to not hurt / harm a fly / flea

[PHRASE]

to refrain from doing anything that would harm or threaten the life of any person or animal

to {not} [hurt|harm] a (fly|flea) definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "not hurt a fly" and when to use it?

The origin of the expression "not hurt a fly" is uncertain, but it is commonly used to describe someone who is extremely gentle and wouldn't harm even the smallest creatures. It highlights their peaceful nature and their reluctance to violence or aggression, both in personal relationships and societal discussions.

Examples

1. And these guys wouldn’t hurt a fly.

2. Terry may look tough, but he wouldn’t hurt a fly.

3. It wouldn’t hurt a fly.

4. Now remember, we're not talking about someone who literally loves bugs so much that they wouldn't hurt a fly.

Nearby words

not have a minute to call own